The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) released admit cards for the Institute of National Importance Combined Entrance Test (INI-CET) on October 26, 2026, for MBBS graduates seeking postgraduate medical admission in the January 2027 batch. The entrance examination is scheduled for November 1, 2026, and will be conducted as a computer-based test. Candidates registered for INI-CET can now download their hall tickets from the official AIIMS portal using their login credentials. This exam serves as an alternative pathway to NEET-PG for admission to MD, MS, and PG Diploma programmes across AIIMS institutes and other national medical institutions.
AIIMS INI-CET admit cards are now live on aiimsexams.ac.in; the entrance exam takes place November 1, 2026, with a 3-hour computer-based format testing 200 objective questions across four 45-minute sections.
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Unlock My College ListWhat is INI-CET and how does it differ from NEET-PG?
INI-CET is a postgraduate medical entrance examination conducted by AIIMS for admission to MD, MS, and PG Diploma programmes at AIIMS institutes and other Institutes of National Importance. Unlike NEET-PG, which is the primary all-India postgraduate entrance test conducted by the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS), INI-CET is a separate pathway managed directly by AIIMS. Both exams lead to PG medical seats, but they operate independently with their own schedules, question patterns, and counselling processes.
For MBBS doctors, INI-CET represents an additional opportunity to secure postgraduate admission. Some candidates appear for both NEET-PG and INI-CET to maximize their chances of selection. The exam is particularly relevant for those targeting AIIMS institutes, which are among India's most prestigious medical institutions. The January 2027 session INI-CET is designed for candidates seeking admission in the upcoming academic year.
INI-CET 2027 exam format and question structure explained
The INI-CET examination is a fully computer-based test lasting 3 hours (180 minutes). The question paper is divided into four parts, each containing 50 questions, for a total of 200 objective-type questions. Each part is allocated exactly 45 minutes, and candidates must answer questions within the allotted time for that section before moving to the next.
The question types include single-choice and multiple-choice formats. The marking scheme awards 1 mark for each correct answer, while an incorrect answer results in a deduction of one-third mark (−0.33). This negative marking encourages accuracy and discourages random guessing. The four-part structure with sequential activation means candidates cannot skip between sections or return to previous parts once the 45-minute timer for that section expires. Each part is automatically submitted after its time limit, and the next section becomes visible only after submission.
- Total questions: 200 (objective type)
- Total duration: 3 hours (180 minutes)
- Section structure: 4 parts × 50 questions each
- Time per section: 45 minutes (sequential, non-skippable)
- Marking: +1 for correct, −0.33 for incorrect, 0 for unanswered
- Question types: Single-choice and multiple-choice
How to download your INI-CET admit card from AIIMS portal
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Candidates who registered for INI-CET January 2027 can download their admit cards (hall tickets) exclusively online from the official AIIMS website. The admit card is not issued in physical form; it must be downloaded and printed by each candidate. According to the official prospectus, the admit card becomes available in the 'MyPage' section of the AIIMS portal after the application window closes.
To access the admit card, candidates must log in using their unique Registration ID and password. The download link is provided on the AIIMS homepage (aiimsexams.ac.in) under the INI-CET section. It is strongly recommended to download and print a hard copy of the admit card for use on exam day, as it contains essential information such as the exam centre location, roll number, and candidate details. Candidates should verify all information on the admit card for accuracy and report any discrepancies to AIIMS immediately.
- Visit aiimsexams.ac.in
- Click on the INI-CET Admit Card 2027 link on the homepage
- Enter your Registration ID and Password in the login portal
- Click Submit to display your admit card
- Download and print the admit card
- Keep a hard copy for exam day and future reference
Exam day logistics: what to expect on November 1, 2026
The INI-CET examination will be held on November 1, 2026, as a computer-based test at designated exam centres across India. Candidates must arrive at their assigned centre well before the scheduled start time with their admit card and valid identification. The admit card will specify the exact centre location, reporting time, and other essential details. Candidates should plan travel and logistics in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
During the exam, candidates will be seated at individual computer terminals. The test interface will display one section at a time, and candidates cannot navigate between sections or return to previous parts. The system automatically disables access to a section once the 45-minute timer expires and activates the next section. Candidates should manage their time carefully within each section, as there is no option to revisit questions. It is advisable to read the exam instructions provided on the portal beforehand to familiarize yourself with the interface and navigation.
- Exam date: November 1, 2026
- Format: Computer-based test (CBT)
- Duration: 3 hours total
- Venue: Assigned exam centre (specified in admit card)
- Required documents: Admit card + valid ID proof
- Arrival: Reach centre well before scheduled start time
- Navigation: Sequential sections, no backtracking allowed
Why INI-CET matters for your PG medical career
For MBBS graduates, INI-CET is a significant pathway to postgraduate medical education at premier institutions. AIIMS institutes are among the most competitive and respected medical centres in India, and securing admission through INI-CET opens doors to high-quality training, research opportunities, and career advancement. The exam is particularly valuable for candidates who may not achieve their desired rank in NEET-PG or who specifically wish to pursue training at AIIMS.
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Clearing INI-CET can lead to admission in MD (Doctor of Medicine), MS (Master of Surgery), or PG Diploma programmes across multiple AIIMS centres and other Institutes of National Importance. The postgraduate qualification from these institutions carries significant weight in the medical profession, influencing career prospects, further specialization opportunities, and professional credibility. Additionally, candidates who qualify for both NEET-PG and INI-CET have the flexibility to choose between counselling processes and seat allocations, thereby maximizing their options.
- Access to AIIMS and Institutes of National Importance
- Admission to MD, MS, and PG Diploma programmes
- High-quality training and research exposure
- Enhanced career prospects and professional credibility
- Alternative pathway if NEET-PG rank is not competitive
- Flexibility to choose between multiple counselling processes
Key dates and timeline for INI-CET January 2027 session
The INI-CET timeline for the January 2027 session is now in its final stages. The admit card release on October 26, 2026, marks the beginning of the exam preparation phase for registered candidates. The examination itself is scheduled for November 1, 2026, just days after admit card availability. This compressed timeline means candidates must be fully prepared and ready to appear on the exam date.
After the examination, result declaration and subsequent counselling processes will follow according to the official schedule published by AIIMS. Candidates should regularly check the AIIMS website for updates on result dates, counselling schedules, and seat allocation timelines. It is crucial to stay informed about all deadlines to ensure timely participation in the counselling process and avoid missing out on seat allocation opportunities.
- Admit card release: October 26, 2026
- Examination date: November 1, 2026
- Exam format: Computer-based test (3 hours)
- Result declaration: To be announced by AIIMS
- Counselling process: To follow after result declaration
- Seat allocation: As per official counselling schedule
Preparation tips for the final week before INI-CET
With the exam just days away, the focus should shift from learning new content to consolidating existing knowledge and building exam confidence. Candidates should review high-yield topics, practice time management within the 45-minute section format, and familiarize themselves with the computer-based interface. Mock tests that simulate the actual exam pattern are invaluable at this stage, as they help identify weak areas and build speed and accuracy.
Mental preparation is equally important. Ensure adequate sleep, maintain a healthy diet, and avoid last-minute cramming, which can increase anxiety. On exam day, arrive early, read all instructions carefully, and manage your time strategically within each section. Remember that negative marking (−0.33 for incorrect answers) means it is better to leave a question unanswered than to guess randomly. Stay calm, trust your preparation, and approach each section with a clear mind.
- Review high-yield topics and key concepts
- Practice mock tests in the actual exam format
- Simulate 45-minute section-wise practice
- Familiarize yourself with the computer-based interface
- Manage time strategically to avoid rushing
- Ensure adequate sleep and avoid last-minute cramming
- On exam day, arrive early and read instructions carefully
- Remember: unanswered questions are safer than wrong guesses due to negative marking
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See My CollegesFrequently asked questions
When was the INI-CET admit card released, and where can I download it?
The AIIMS INI-CET admit card for the January 2027 session was released on October 26, 2026. Candidates can download it from the official AIIMS website at aiimsexams.ac.in by logging in with their Registration ID and Password in the 'MyPage' section. The admit card is available online only and must be downloaded and printed by each candidate.
What is the date and format of the INI-CET examination?
The INI-CET examination is scheduled for November 1, 2026. It is a computer-based test (CBT) lasting 3 hours (180 minutes). The exam consists of 200 objective-type questions divided into four sections of 50 questions each, with 45 minutes allocated per section. Questions include single-choice and multiple-choice formats, with +1 mark for correct answers and −0.33 mark for incorrect answers.
How is the INI-CET different from NEET-PG?
INI-CET is a separate postgraduate entrance examination conducted by AIIMS for admission to MD, MS, and PG Diploma programmes at AIIMS institutes and other Institutes of National Importance. NEET-PG is the primary all-India postgraduate entrance test conducted by NBEMS. Both are independent pathways with different schedules, question patterns, and counselling processes. MBBS doctors can appear for both exams to maximize their chances of PG admission.
What documents do I need to bring on exam day?
On exam day (November 1, 2026), you must bring your downloaded and printed INI-CET admit card and a valid government-issued identification document (such as Aadhaar, passport, or driving licence). The admit card will specify your exam centre location, reporting time, and other essential details. Arrive at the centre well before the scheduled start time.
Can I skip questions or go back to previous sections during the exam?
No. The INI-CET exam has a sequential section structure. Each of the four sections is displayed for exactly 45 minutes, and you cannot skip between sections or return to previous parts. Once the 45-minute timer for a section expires, access to that section is automatically disabled, and the next section becomes visible. Each section is automatically submitted after its time limit. You must manage your time carefully within each section.
What is the negative marking scheme, and how should I approach it?
For each correct answer, you receive 1 mark. For each incorrect answer, you lose 0.33 marks (one-third mark). Unanswered questions carry no marks. Due to this negative marking, it is strategically better to leave a question unanswered than to guess randomly. Focus on accuracy over attempting every question, and only answer questions you are reasonably confident about.
When will the INI-CET results be declared, and what happens next?
The exact date for result declaration has not been specified in the official announcement. Candidates should regularly check the AIIMS website (aiimsexams.ac.in) for updates on result dates. After results are declared, AIIMS will announce the counselling schedule and seat allocation process. It is crucial to stay informed about all deadlines to ensure timely participation in counselling and avoid missing seat allocation opportunities.
Is INI-CET the only way to get admission to AIIMS PG programmes?
INI-CET is one pathway to AIIMS PG programmes. However, some AIIMS institutes also participate in NEET-PG counselling conducted by NBEMS/MCC. Candidates should check the official AIIMS website to understand which programmes are available through INI-CET and which may be available through NEET-PG. Having both INI-CET and NEET-PG qualifications provides maximum flexibility in choosing between counselling processes.
Download your INI-CET admit card immediately from aiimsexams.ac.in if you have not already done so, and verify all details for accuracy. With the exam on November 1, 2026, use the remaining days to consolidate your preparation, practice mock tests in the actual format, and ensure you understand the sequential section structure and negative marking scheme. Stay updated on the AIIMS portal for result announcements and counselling schedules.
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